Sony
Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) announced that a completely new look PlayStation 2 will
become available throughout Europe on 1st November 2004.
While inheriting the basic
functions and design philosophy of the current PlayStation 2, the internal architecture has
been completely redesigned, resulting in a slimmer and more lightweight design. Internal
volume has been reduced by 75 per cent, weight has been halved, and thickness trimmed down
to 2.8 cm (thickness of current model is 7.8 cm). The new version will come equipped with an
integrated Ethernet port for network gaming. The move is the next logical step for Sony
which is, after all, preparing to launch a handheld which boasts similar potential to that
of the PS2. For a selection of images comparing the new PS2 to the previous one, follow the
Screens tab above.
Since its launch in November 2000, PlayStation 2, now in its fifth
year has reached a consumer installed base of nearly 24 million units in the PAL
territories. The exciting new design, combined with the price reduction in August to 149
Euros should position PlayStation 2 for a comfortable road to retirement.
The new
design PlayStation 2 will be supported by a lineup of exciting and innovative new titles,
scheduled for launch in time for the peak Christmas period.
There are already over
1,000 games titles already available for PlayStation 2, and many more scheduled for launch
before the end of the year, including SCEE published titles such as Gran Turismo 4, The
Getaway: Black Monday, Singstar Party, EyeToy Play 2 and Killzone, and over 150 more titles
from leading third party
publishers.
